Bishop's-cap
Mitella diphylla
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Bishop's-cap is a delicate woodland perennial that forms small clumps of heart-shaped leaves close to the ground. In late spring, it sends up slender spikes of tiny white flowers that have a distinctive fringed appearance. This native ground cover works well in shaded areas where few other plants thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bishop's-cap takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small and can appear sparse or weedy
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Flowers are tiny and may look unkempt to traditional gardeners
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during May and June blooming period. As a native woodland plant, it provides habitat for small insects and contributes to local ecosystem health.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bishop's-cap fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.